The Sunscreen Debate

By Dr. Blossom Kochhar

June 06, 2023 (IANSlife) In recent years, the world has witnessed a growing awareness of environmental issues, urging individuals to adopt sustainable practices in all aspects of life. The beauty industry too has been working towards making the industry work towards sustainable options and are making beauty routines, too, transformed into eco-friendly endeavors. By making conscious choices and embracing sustainable alternatives, we can minimise our ecological footprint while still looking and feeling our best.

Here are some practical steps and sustainable solutions that can be incorporated into your beauty routine, promoting a harmonious balance between self-care and environmental consciousness. Streamline Your Products - The first step towards a sustainable beauty routine is decluttering your collection of beauty products. Take stock of what you have and determine which ones are truly essential. By streamlining your products, you reduce waste and limit the consumption of unnecessary packaging. Look for multipurpose products that serve multiple functions, such as tinted moisturizers with SPF or lip and cheek stains, a body wash that works as a face wash as well. Opt for refillable packaging or products sold in recyclable or biodegradable containers to minimize the amount of plastic waste generated.

Choose Natural and Organic Ingredients - When selecting beauty products, prioritize those made with natural and organic ingredients. Many conventional beauty products contain harmful chemicals that are not only detrimental to your health but also pollute water sources and harm ecosystems. Look for certified organic and natural labels, which ensure that the ingredients used are sustainably sourced and free from harmful additives. Embrace the power of nature by incorporating ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and essential oils into your routine. Not only are these ingredients kinder to the environment, but they also offer nourishment, rejuvenation, and holistic solutions for your skin and hair concerns.

DIY Beauty Recipes - Another fantastic way to promote sustainability in your beauty routine is by creating your own products using simple, natural ingredients found in your kitchen. Experiment with homemade face masks, body scrubs, and hair treatments, using ingredients like oatmeal, honey, and avocado. DIY beauty recipes not only reduce waste, but they also allow you to tailor products to your specific needs and preferences. You can find a multitude of recipes and tutorials online that offer creative and effective solutions for all your beauty needs.

Conserving water is an essential aspect of a sustainable beauty routine. While it may be tempting to indulge in long, hot showers or leave the tap running while performing your skincare routine, it's important to be mindful of your water usage. Consider taking shorter showers, turning off the tap while you're brushing your teeth or lathering your face, and collecting rainwater to use for watering your plants or rinsing your hair. These small adjustments can go a long way in conserving water, a precious resource that must be protected.

Mindful Packaging and Recycling - When purchasing beauty products, pay attention to the packaging. Opt for brands that use minimal packaging or choose products that come in recyclable or biodegradable materials. Look for beauty brands that offer refillable options or take-back programs to reduce waste. Additionally, make a habit of recycling empty product containers instead of throwing them in the trash. Many communities have recycling programs or drop-off locations for beauty packaging, so be sure to explore the options available in your area.

Embracing a sustainable beauty routine is a powerful way to contribute to the preservation of our planet while still enjoying the benefits of self-care. By streamlining our products, choosing natural and organic ingredients, exploring DIY options, reducing water consumption, and being mindful of packaging and recycling, we can significantly minimize our environmental impact. Remember, sustainable beauty is not about sacrificing our personal care but rather making conscious choices that support a healthier and safer beauty routine.

(Dr. Blossom Kochhar, Chairperson Blossom Kochhar Group of Companies)

By IANSlife

June 02, 2023 (IANSlife) Over the past couple of years, the importance of Sunscreen as a skincare essential has gained immense popularity. The sudden hype around Sunscreen is attributed to the growing awareness of the effects of UV rays on the skin through the emergence of scientific research and increasing cases of skin cancer. As we approach the summer season, when the UV rays get more robust, we must protect our skin from sunburns, premature ageing, and other skin damage.

Sunscreen is a product that helps protect your skin from the sun's damaging rays which are imperceptible to the naked eye. Doctor Aparna Santhanam, Dermafique Skin Expert said, "Sunscreen is a must-have product for everyone, regardless of skin type or tone. It is critical to use a full-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to guard against UVA,UVB rays, infrared rays and visible light. Sunscreen must be a part of your daily skincare routine, even when it is cloudy outside." UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin's layers than UVB rays, leading to premature skin ageing, including the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. This occurs because UV rays attack collagen and elastin, two proteins required for skin elasticity and firmness. Since UVA, UVB, infrared rays can cause skin damage, applying a sunscreen that offers fullspectrum protection is necessary. Doctor Aparna Santhanam adds, "it is equally necessary to remember to reapply Sunscreen regularly throughout the day, especially if you're outdoors for swimming, hiking, playing, etc. You should apply Sunscreen 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two to three hours".

Moreover, the beauty industry has also recognized the importance of Sunscreen and incorporated it into their products. Many makeup products, including foundations, BB creams, and tinted moisturizers, now contain SPF, making it easier for people to protect their skin from the sun while applying makeup.

Given the variety of available options, choosing the right Sunscreen can be overwhelming. When selecting a sunscreen, it is essential to look at the Sun Protection Factor (or SPF), which measures a sunscreen's ability to protect against UVB rays. A sunscreen that has an SPF of atleats 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while an SPF of 50 blocks back 98%. Ultimately, consider the texture and feel of the Sunscreen, and choose the one that works well with your skin type. Sunscreens are now available in various textures, formulas, and SPF levels, making it easier for everyone to pick.Opt for sunscreens which are lightweight and non-sticky, to suit the hot & humid Indian summers..